Fees Passes Hours
Everything About Park Access & Costs
Understanding the fees passes hours at Hollister Hills ensures a smooth visit. This comprehensive guide to fees passes hours covers everything from daily costs to operating schedules and reservation policies.
Current Fee Structure
Hollister Hills operates on a simple, affordable fee system according to California State Parks. Here's everything you'll pay to access the park:
| Item | Cost | Valid Period | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day Use | $5 | Single day | Per vehicle, collected at entrance |
| Camping | $10/night | Per night | Per vehicle, first-come first-served |
| OHV Annual Pass | Varies | 1 year | Free day use entry (camping still $10) |
| Non-Resident Permit | $30 | Calendar year | Out-of-state visitors |
| Green Sticker (CA) | $54 | 2 years | Emissions-compliant OHV registration |
| Red Sticker (CA) | $54 | 2 years | Non-compliant, seasonal restrictions |
Payment Methods
At the kiosk: Cash or card (when ranger staffed)
Automatic pay machine: Available 24/7 when kiosk unstaffed - accepts cash and cards
Pro tip: Bring cash as backup - card readers occasionally have connectivity issues in remote areas. More information at California OHV Parks.
Special Passes Accepted
Discounts & Free Entry Passes
Accepted OHV Annual Pass
Free day use entry
Camping still $10/night
Purchase: ReserveCalifornia.com or park office
Accepted Distinguished Veteran Pass
Discount on fees
Day use and camping discounts
Apply in person at office
Accepted Disabled Discount Pass
Discount on fees
Day use and camping discounts
Apply in person or online
NOT Accepted (Purchase at Office)
Not Valid Golden Bear Pass
Does NOT provide free entry to SVRAs - separate fee required
Not Valid Senior Golden Bear
Does NOT provide free entry to SVRAs - separate fee required
Not Valid California Explorer
Does NOT provide free entry to SVRAs - separate fee required
Application: Eligible passes can be obtained in person at park office OR online at ReserveCalifornia.com
Operating Hours & Seasonal Variations
Park Operating Hours
Day Use: Sunrise to sunset daily
Vehicle Operation: Sunrise to sunset ONLY (no night riding)
Park Status: Open 365 days/year (including holidays)
Gate Access: Kiosk hours vary seasonally; automatic pay machine available 24/7
These fees passes hours are strictly enforced by rangers for safety and resource protection.
Seasonal Closure Protocols
Important Weather-Based Closures
Adobe & Renz areas: Close during wet weather for safety and erosion control
Hudner Ranch (4x4 area): Subject to seasonal closures due to adobe clay soil management
Always check before arriving: https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1179 or call (831) 637-3874
Granitic/sandy trails (western sections) typically stay open longer as they drain faster than adobe areas. Check official trail status page before every visit to avoid wasted trips.
Reservation System
Current Camping Policy
First-Come, First-Served
All Lower Ranch campgrounds:
• Lodge Campground
• Bee Campground
• Madrone Campground
• Upper Ranch campgrounds
No reservations - arrive early!
Reservable Sites (Online)
Limited availability:
• 2 remote Hudner Ranch campsites (4x4 access only)
• ADA-accessible sites in Lower Ranch
Book at: ReserveCalifornia.com
Important Camping Rules
Saving spaces is PROHIBITED: You cannot drop a chair or sign and leave. You must have your vehicle and camping setup present to hold a site.
Holiday weekends: First vehicle on-site at sunrise usually gets choice sites. Competition is fierce on 3-day weekends.
Refund Policy: For reservable sites, check ReserveCalifornia.com terms (typically 48-72 hours notice required)
Booking Strategy
For popular weekends:
- Arrive Friday afternoon/evening to secure camping spot
- Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day = arrive as early as possible
- October 11 (50th Anniversary) = expect maximum capacity
For weekdays: Camping almost always available, minimal competition. Understanding these fees passes hours helps you plan the best visit times.
Busiest Times to Avoid (or Plan For)
Peak Weekends
• Memorial Day
• 4th of July
• Labor Day
• All 3-day weekends
• October 11, 2025 (50th Anniversary)
Moderate Traffic
• Regular weekends (Sat-Sun)
• Spring/Fall months
• Race event weekends
• School holiday breaks
Quietest Times
• Tuesday-Thursday
• October-March weekdays
• Thanksgiving/Christmas
• Winter (check for closures)
Best For Beginners
• Weekday mornings
• Mid-week (Tue-Thu)
• Non-holiday periods
• Spring/Fall shoulder seasons
Event Calendar Considerations
Upper Ranch may be closed for special events/races. Lower Ranch typically stays open during these times.
Check event calendar: https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1179
Events can impact parking availability even if your riding area remains open.
Enforcement & Common Issues
Rangers actively enforce:
- Proper payment at entrance (day use or camping fees)
- Valid OHV registration/stickers
- Camping rules (no saving sites, quiet hours)
- Operating hours (sunrise to sunset only)
Violations Common Fee Violations
Attempting to enter without payment: Citation and potential exclusion
Expired passes/stickers: Must pay full fee or leave
Camping without payment: Citation ($100+) and eviction
Operating after sunset: Safety violation, citation issued
Pro Tip: Keep payment receipts visible on dashboard to avoid re-payment if you leave and return same day. This guide to fees passes hours should help you budget and plan your perfect Hollister Hills visit.
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